I make photographs to corroborate my existence. It is a way of processing the world I live in day to day. Photographing keeps me alert to my surroundings and provides feedback. Creating images enables me to externalize myself through expression. This results in a dialogue with myself about my own essence.

My work for the last ten years has focused on what I call, “visual spontaneous combustions.” I have discovered an arena that exists on the edge of what we notice. In a world of accelerating distractions, these images represent mindfulness. They are close-up and far away; across the room and under my nose; they explode into my view and consciousness. What attracts me is the spatial tension between elements and the unintended magic that occurs. The images tell strange stories and ask questions at the same time. In doing so, these mysteries fulfill me and teach me about who I am and what the world is about. I create the images in a straightforward manner. I consciously decide perspective; juxtaposition of elements; spatial relationships; the lighting… I frame and capture what is important to me. There is great satisfaction in extracting the unreal from the real.

Shooting straight photography contrasts with my earlier work, which was almost entirely photomontage. I made meaning by repurposing existing images into new arrangements or setups that generated new meanings. I photographed these concoctions and exhibited the results. I did not think it possible to find the same visual excitement, satisfaction and impact in a world untouched by my hand. I was wrong. My visual spontaneous combustions blow me away. The more I look, the more I see.